Should I see a facialist or a dermatologist?

Who doesn’t love a great facial? You go in, get a fluffy robe and have someone work their magic while Enya hums in the background.

However, what clients want from a spa treatment has shifted dramatically over the past few years. We now expect to get far more than just pampering for our dollars and time – we want results.

Beauty therapists know this and offer a varied menu of high tech lasers, peels, light therapy and resurfacing machines.

But what if after each pricey appointment, you’re still not getting the skin you want? You might be looking for a solution in the wrong place.

While beauty therapists offer much more than a face mask and a massage these days, certain skin issues still require the expertise of a dermatologist.

Here’s our guide to which skin guru you should be booking for the results you want.

What is the difference between a dermatologist and a skin therapist?

A dermatologist is a doctor and a skin professional isn’t.

“Every dermatologist has gone through medical school. So that’s six years of med school, and in Australia, a further four to five years studying all aspects of the skin,” explains Dr Shobhan Manoharan, dermatologist and Director of Brisbane Skin.

“It’s not just cosmetic skin care or general skin health [we study], but everything from rashes to paediatrics, skin cancer and melanoma, to disorders of the hair and nails.”

Skin professionals, on the other hand, come from a diverse range of backgrounds and are known by different titles, says Melanie Grant, Director of The Double Bay Skin Clinic.

“They might be called dermal therapists, aestheticians or clinical facialists. Their training also varies from diploma to degree level.”

Which concerns require a dermatologist?

The line between the camps can get a little blurry but one point is crystal clear: if you’re concerned about skin cancer, moles, skin growths or changes in freckles, head straight to a dermatologist.

“If it’s a non-cosmetic issue, such as a rash or a skin cancer, always ask a specialist,” says Dr Manoharan.

Who should I see for acne?

If acne is a persistent and ongoing issue, it’s often worth heading to the dermatologist.

“People with acne and acne scarring often get under-treated for a long time and go through other pathways with no results [before seeing a dermatologist]. It’s worth knowing that dermatologists are specialists in treating acne,” says Dr Manoharan.

Who should I see for hair removal or anti-ageing treatments?

“If your concerns are purely related to appearance you should consider talking to a good skin professional,” says Grant.

“Skin professionals put increased importance on aesthetics in their planning and recommendation of treatments.”

However, if you’re particularly sensitive, have darker skin, or worry you might be at a higher risk of side effects, Dr Manoharan suggests seeing a dermatologist for peels, laser and light treatment.

The bottom line

If your concerns go beyond simple skin issues or are related to changes in spots and moles, always see a dermatologist.

For cosmetic issues, a skin professional should be able to assist. (This might include mild breakouts, dry patches, and ageing concerns, or procedures such as microdermabrasion, extractions, pore cleansing, acid peels, exfoliation or various light treatments.)

“Whoever you start talking to, ask them about their practice and their network,” says Grant. “For example, my practice is dedicated to skin aesthetics. For medical concerns, I work with some fantastic dermatologists to give my client the best coverage possible for their skin.”